Meaning of the word "white whale" in English

What does "white whale" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

white whale

US /waɪt weɪl/
UK /waɪt weɪl/
"white whale" picture

Noun

1.

a goal or object that is extremely difficult to find or achieve

Example:
Finding a cure for cancer has been the white whale of medical research.
For many archaeologists, discovering the lost city of Atlantis is their ultimate white whale.
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